1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 147
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. (148 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 31 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 147, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 147. 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 280 | 147 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
